Objectives: To describe the clinical encounters that occur when
a palliative care team provides patient care and the features that
influence these encounters and indicate whether they are favorable or
unfavorable depending on the expectations and feelings of the various
participants.
Methods: A qualitative case study conducted via participant
observation. A total of 12 observations of the meetings of palliative care
teams with patients and families in different settings (home, hospital
and consultation room) were performed. The visits were follow-up
or first visits, either scheduled or on demand. Content analysis of the
observation was performed.
Results: The analysis showed the normal follow-up activity of the
palliative care unit that was focused on controlling symptoms, sharing
information and providing advice on therapeutic regimens and care.
The environment appeared to condition the patients\' expressions
and the type of patient relationship. Favorable clinical encounter
conditions included kindness and gratitude. Unfavorable conditions
were deterioration caused by approaching death, unrealistic family
objectives and limited resources.
Conclusion: Home visits from basic palliative care teams play an
important role in patient and family well-being. The visits seem to
focus on controlling symptoms and are conditioned by available
resources.